Consumer complaints ranging from rogue traders to energy companies will be dealt with by a charity in the future.

As part of the axe falling on quangos, the government-backed Consumer Direct helpline will be taken over by the Citizens Advice Bureau.

The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) is being stripped of its consumer protection role, with trading standards also taking on more responsibility.

The OFT is to be merged with the Competition Commission.

Local trading standards officers will deal with the OFT's previous high-profile work in taking on major consumer issues.

BBC business editor Robert Peston said: "The big question is whether local trading standards offices will have the resources or expertise to really challenge the behaviour of giant businesses."

Changes

Some 192 organisations will be abolished in the government's cull of quangos.

This will impact directly on consumers who will see a dilution of some of the groups that offer support and advice.

To read more http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-11540624